Embedded radio modem
CIRCUIT Design has released the MU-1 low-power radio modem designed for embedding in industrial equipment.
It is designed for serial data communications that uses the UART serial interface to interface with the host system, while data input/output is performed with simple commands.
A narrowband radio component, a CPU for control, and high-frequency circuitry are enclosed in a metal shield case. The internal CPU ensures stable operation of the radio component. Besides processing data, it communicates with the host system. While the MU-1 is no bigger than conventional modules that contain only a radio component, it offers serial data communication with dedicated commands and reliable long distance communication with good noise resistance.
The MU-1 meets the requirements of the European standard R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC, and operates within the harmonised 434MHz ISM band, with 64 channels in 25kHz steps. The complicated PLL control and associated data input timing control required with a conventional radio module, insertion of the preamble before the data, and the radio data link are all handled by the internal CPU of the MU-1. The circuit board is designed for high frequencies and is mounted with all the components required for control of the radio component. The MU-1 comes with an antenna, so that the user can concentrate on development of the host system without having to pay much attention to the high-frequency element. As a result it is possible to shorten product development time significantly, and reduce the number of parts.
Circuit Design is also releasing interface kits that allow the use of USB and LAN interfaces in addition to the RS232C interface. These interface kits include an interface board, MU-1, cables, and an evaluation software program so that the user can check the operation of the product straight away.
Circuit Design +81 263 82 1024
8-Oct-2004